Peoples Church Ladies

Come Join Us...

2012-01-02T13:33:00.000-08:00

For fellowship and bible study! Starting Jan 10, 2012...

Tuesdays at 9 am

Jennifer Rothchild's Me, Myself, and Lies

Childcare is provided!

Thursdays at 7 pm

Beth Moore's James: Mercy Triumphs

Priscilla Shirer's SEED

Priscilla Shirer explains the concept of SEED and the five Ps of Bible study.

New Bible Studies Start January 10th!

2011-12-11T14:23:00.001-08:00

Single Moms

2011-12-11T14:20:00.001-08:00

Single Moms - Sunday School Class @ 11:30 am beginning in January

NEW START for SINGLE MOMS by Diane Strack isn’t about divorce. It’s about building healthy, secure families, one mom at a time through a ten-week program of relational Christianity. Diane Strack wants single moms to understand that they are not alone and that they can be successful in raising their children and overcoming past obstacles.

Click here to learn more!

The Gift To Salem

2011-11-30T19:01:00.001-08:00

Peoples Church joyfully invites you to "The Gift To Salem" featuring the 80-voice Peoples Church Choir, Celebration Orchestra, "Kings Kids" Children's Choir, Stomp Routine, Drama Team and more!

Friday, Dec 9th @ 7 pm
Saturday, Dec 10th @ 4 pm and 7 pm
Sunday, Dec 11th @ 4 pm and 7 pm

Tickets are FREE!
Get your tickets today! Click here for details!

Fore more info, or to make a donation, please call (503) 304-4000 or email us at info@peopleschurch.com.

A New Study

2011-11-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

Connect Groups have started a new six week study!

Join us on Tuesdays at 9 am for Margaret Feinberg's Pursuing God's Beauty and Thursdays at 7 pm for Margaret Feinberg's Pursuing God's Love. Join us for a time of worship and fellowship!

For more information email Heather at heather.miller@peopleschurch.com

Fall Events

2011-10-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Hope & Help for the Single Mom

Sundays, 11:30am, Room D

Whether you are a teen, never married, divorced or a widowed single mother, the “Principles of a Healthy Single Mom” by Lori Little will encourage you to flourish in the midst of your overwhelming circumstances. The 21 Principles are designed for a single mom by a single mom. They will take you to a new level by equipping you with positive instruction and practical tools that will inspire you to live well and raise healthy children.

Servant’s Heart Meal Ministry

Have you ever been blessed with a meal during an unexpected emergency? From time to time members of our church family experience a serious illness, undergo surgery or sustain an injury which makes it very difficult to prepare meals for their families or themselves. Servant’s Heart Ministry temporarily provides meals to those in our church family that have urgent needs.

If you have a heart for helping those in need, you may like to join others in this vital ministry by periodically providing a dish! For more information please contact the office.

Thanksgiving Pies

Ladies, we need your help! We will be baking pies on November 21 - 22 in the peoples church kitchen. Maybe you have an hour or two or maybe a day or two that you would like to help make pies. Bring a sack lunch and enjoy some time baking in the kitchen!

Pie Tins Needed

Please bring in any extra pie tins you are willing to donate by Sunday, November 20 for our Thanksgiving Pie Baking which will be happening Monday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 22.

At the table in the foyer:

1. Sign up to participate in this fun, productive 3 days

2. Place pie orders (with payment) through Wednesday, November 9

3. Pick up pies on Wednesday, November 23

The proceeds from our pie sales help to fund our SPECTRUM ministries to widows, seasoned single ladies and single moms.

Linger Longer

As we enter into the colder fall and winter seasons, Dessert Café will now transition to warm, savory crock-pot dishes once a month following the Sunday evening service. Everyone is invited to Linger Longer in Conference Room A & B, and enjoy a savory crock-pot dish! On Sunday, October 16, Linger Longer will feature home-made Chili! Proceeds will go toward our Women’s Regional Outreaches.

Love

2011-09-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

This week bible study started again...Pursuing God's Love by Margaret Feinberg. I also finished the book, The Seventeen Second Miracle. I honestly haven't read a fiction book where it really makes you want to become a better person.

Both the book and bible study is about love. The study goes through Genesis reveling God's love for us unconditionally and the novel is about loving others even if it is only seventeen seconds at a time. At the grocery store this weekend, I found myself unintentionally looking around me at the faces of those shopping. I mean, really looking. How many times have I really needed help with a bag of groceries? Or needed that person to just hold the door open for me? Or to give me a smile instead of a scowl while my son threw a fit? This week I truly want to be the one that helps and not expects help from others. Maybe if there was more love shown to those around us, those around us would be more willing to love others.

Pursuing God's Love: Stories from the Book of Genesis from Margaret Feinberg on Vimeo.

It's not too late to join the 9 am Tuesday bible study! Call the church office (503) 304-4000 for more details!

Written by Jen Evans

Me, Myself, and Lies

2011-09-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

In the study Me Myself and Lies by Jennifer Rothschild, we are examining the things that are cluttering up our "thought-closets". When I was growing up, I shared a bedroom with my twin sister, and like most kids, our room occasionally became messy and cluttered. However, whenever our mother made us clean it, instead of shoving everything under the beds, we did exactly the opposite. We did a full spring cleaning! Jen sorted and organized everything in our closet, while I rearranged every piece of furniture at least once. Our mother just wanted to see a tidy bedroom, but we did an extreme room makeover!

Sometimes spaces need that kind of attention. In fact, even "thought-closets" need cleaning. Romans 12:2 tells us we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Jennifer challenges us to evaluate what’s in our thought closet. Are your shelves jam-packed with reminders of former failures? Is there a jumble of secret insecurities littering the floor? And what to do with all the lies you've been telling yourself for years? Does your thought-closet need an extreme makeover? God can do it!

It isn't too late to join us for Thursday evening bible study! We meet at 7 pm and if you would like more information, call the church office at 503-304-4000.

Written by Rebecca Grinder

Connect Groups

2011-08-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

Invite a friend and let’s connect starting September 13th and 15th...

Tuesdays at 9:00am

Pursuing God's Love: Stories from the Book of Genesis by Margaret Feinberg

Pursuing God's Love: Stories from the Book of Genesis from Margaret Feinberg on Vimeo.

Pursuing God's Beauty: Stories from the Gospel of John by Margaret Feinberg

Pursuing God's Beauty: Stories from the Gospel of John from Margaret Feinberg on Vimeo.

Thursdays at 7:00pm

The Organic God by Margaret Feinberg

Why do you describe God as "organic?" from Margaret Feinberg on Vimeo.

Me Myself and Lies: A Thought Closet Makeover by Jennifer Rothschild

(The promo video is in the last post published.)

Sneak Peek...

2011-08-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

Me, Myself, and Lies, a bible study by Jennifer Rothschild starting Thursday evenings, at 7pm, this fall! You won't want to miss this amazing study!

Beth Moore Live Simulcast on September 10, 2011

2011-07-19T20:51:00.000-07:00

Peoples Church is hosting...

Beth Moore Live Simulcast

Peoples Church 4500 Lancaster Drive NE, Salem, OR 97305

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Doors open at 8:00 am

Tickets $25 (includes lunch)

Tickets are now available!

At the Church Office

Monday - Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Friday 8:30 am - noon

Peoples Church Bookstore During Service Times

http://www.peopleschurch.com/sections/services/

Pay Online By Going To

http://oregonag.org/events/beth-moore-simulcast/registration

For more information about this event go to Lifeway.com

Questions? Contact the church office at 503-304-4000

Help the local community by bringing school supplies to donate to the Salem/Keizer Education Foundation.

For a list of school supplies needed, click here.

Sister 2 Sister - June 4th 9am-11am

2011-05-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

Girl's Day Out - Craft Day!

2011-05-25T10:31:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, May 28th, bring your own craft project of your choice (scrapbooking/knitting/needlework, etc.) to Room A/B anytime between 9 am and 4 pm and let's hang out together! It's casual so feel free to come and go as you please!

Labor of Love

2011-05-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

This time of year I can't help but dream of my garden. This will be my fourth garden since I started the hobby about ten years ago. My first garden was given to me. I was teaching at an elementary school when a parent offered starts for my new place. My garden beds were empty besides three lonely rose bushes. This sweet woman set a time for me to come over to her home to pick some plants out. As I drove down the street, I slowed down past this house that had no yard. It was entirely a garden filled with beautiful plants. I was in such shock that I forgot to look for the house number and realized I had past it. So, I turned my vehicle around and it was then I noticed that the house I was gawking at was her house! I got out of the car amazed at how beautiful the garden was. When I was welcomed in the home, I got to sit with her and her two daughters for a little while. Then, we went outside with a shovel. I knew nothing about flowers, plants, or dirt for that matter. ;) But, she didn't even offer the shovel. She just put her gloves on and went around talking non-stop about each plant and everything about it. She told me its name, what its needs were, and what color it would be when in bloom. Everything she told me was filed away or slipped out of my memory when she began to tell me that her whole garden was given to her. I asked her how that was possible.

Then she told me her story. "I am not suppose to be alive today." I was shocked. She continued to tell me of this rare disease that she had. "I was given six months to live. I didn't want to die. I wanted to see my children grow up..." She told me that she had this rose bush in her yard that had never bloomed. She just wanted to see it bloom before she died. In the meantime friends and family members began to give her roses and other plants on her doorstep. "I would open my door and there would be another plant. So, I began putting them in the garden." That late spring, the rose bush bloomed and she was still alive. The doctors are amazed at her health. She was healed. "I live everyday as a gift from God. I am so thankful that I get to spend it with my girls." I saw her gratefulness in how she spoke to her children and to those around her. She was always kind and cheerful with a humble spirit.

While she talked she just kept on digging. The pile of plants just kept getting bigger and bigger. When we loaded my Chevy Cavalier, it was packed to the brim. There were stems sticking out my windows. As I planted my first garden, I was determined to keep these plants alive. I had to. If I kept this garden alive, then, it was like keeping this woman's story alive too.

That was the beginning. I began to love gardening and it was because of this story. It helped me realize that everything that was put into the ground and then bloomed was a gift from God. Every flower that was a gift from another gardener survived in this garden, whereas anything I purchased from a store didn't.

I miss that garden. It was a labor of love. This year, in our new home, I plan on beginning again. Even though I only have a few plants from that first garden the memory of why I started gardening in the first place is very much alive!

Open Eyes

2011-04-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was thinking about how much we live our lives in our own little "bubbles." When I was at the eye doctor a few months ago, my doctor explained to me that since my eyes are unable to see far away, my brain has kind of developed this imaginary bubble around myself. Boy, did I understand what he was saying. My husband tells me that I don't look beyond a certain distance. I didn't know what he meant until the doctor explained this. The doctor told me that it is like I am in my own little world, without meaning to be of course. He continued to explain that even though I will be trying contacts out, I needed to train my brain to look beyond this "imaginary bubble."

Man... it hit me. Am I like that with people? Do I ignore those hurting around me because I am in my "own little world." I hope not! I know that I need to also train myself to look at those around me that need help or are hurting and be more like Christ.

Scouting the Divine - The Good Shepherd

2011-04-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Lynne (the shepherdess from Scouting the Divine written by Margaret Feinberg), visited Peoples Church. She graciously spoke candidly during the Tuesday morning bible study. Jen Evans, recalled a bit of Lynne’s conversation which struck her most. “Lynne explained something that it is common knowledge among those who raise sheep; "A sick sheep is a dead sheep." Sheep’s natural instinct is to hide the fact that they are sick. They will even go to the food troth and nudge the food with their nose but not eat. Lynne has to pay close attention to all her sheep making sure that one isn't walking a little slower than usual. She knows her flock and their personalities and if one's personality is a little abnormal, she has to check to see if it is healthy. Lynne shared that if a sheep is showing signs of illness, it is too late. They are already a very sick sheep.”

Then, Jen shared, “Isn't it true that we will try to mask our feelings to others and even to God when things aren't going well in our lives? We try and say it is ok, ignore the problem, or try and take care of it ourselves. If we had just gone to our Good Shepherd right away, he would have taken care of our problem, our spirit, and given us peace in the circumstance.”

When you are ill (whether it be physical, emotional, or spiritual) do you go to the Good Shepherd or do you choose to ignore the symptoms and keep on going until you can’t go on any longer? By not turning to our Lord, do we not give him the worship He deserves?

written by - Becca Grinder

Check out this amazing video from Margaret on The Good Shepherd!

The Good Shepherd: A Tangible Illustration of God's Love from Margaret Feinberg on Vimeo.

Preparing for Passion Week

2011-04-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this time of year get you antsy for spring? It does me... I feel like, for the first time in a while, that I am mentally getting prepared for Passion Week next week along with Palm Sunday and Easter. It feels like spring is finally trying to burst forth, although we are getting quite a bit of rain mixed in with the sunshine.

Tuesdays and Thursdays we have started a new bible study called, Scouting the Divine, by Margaret Feinberg. We will be searching for God in scriptures referencing wine, wool, and honey. It is hard to relate to God in the scriptures when he is talking about the lamb, the vine, and a land "flowing with milk and honey." When, as Margaret says, "We get our honey and grapes from the grocery store." This society doesn't really know what it means to keep sheep or bees, unless you are a farmer.

Photo by Matthew Pettit, of shepherds and their sheep, Israel

So, it is quite interesting to be reading about sheep right now at the beginning of spring. It just makes me want to dig in the garden, take my son to the park, and pot a few flowers. What about you?

Note: Check out the times for this season's bible studies here.

SHE Event with Rebecca St. James and Evie

2011-03-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

SHE Event with Rebecca St. James and Evie
Friday, April 8th - Peoples Church - Salem, OR - 7 pm

Tickets go on sale March 13th!

Click here to purchase tickets!

Tickets prices are $15 or $19. Gold Circle - $15.00 General Admission available at Peoples Church and iTickets.com. For more information, please call (503) 304-4000.

Click here for more info!

New Studies!

2011-03-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

Connect Groups -
New studies start April 12, 2011!
Not sure which study to take a part in? Click the links provided to read more or see video promos!

Tuesdays at 9:00am

Scouting the Divine by Margaret Feinberg

Scouting the Divine from Threads on Vimeo.

Love Revolution Conference and Healthy Living Series by Joyce Meyer

The Truth Project (continues thru 4/12 ) by Focus on the Family

The Case for Christ (starts 4/19) by Lee Strobel
http://www.leestrobel.com/

Thursdays at 7:00pm

Scouting the Divine by Margaret Feinberg
(see video above)

Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy by Beth Moore
(click to check out a sample of Session One!)

Upcoming Connect Groups!

2010-12-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

Connect Groups - New studies start up January 4, 2011! Not sure which study to take a part in? Click the links provided to read more or see video promos!

Tuesdays at 9:00am

Crazy Love by Francis Chan
(click the link to see a video and more info on this amazing book)

The Truth Project by Focus on the Family

Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge
a video series and bible study combo

Thursdays at 7:00pm

One In A Million - Journey to Your Promised Land by Pricilla Shirer
(click the link to watch the promo video)
You can read more about Pricilla Shirer here.

Believing God by Beth Moore
a video series and bible study combo

Ruth: Week 6

2010-12-16T15:43:00.001-08:00

Untitled from April Dace on Vimeo.

A Real Christmas Story

2010-12-10T15:23:00.000-08:00

Start a new tradition in your family! Include the book
St. Nicholas – The Real Story of the Christmas Legend, oranges, and a drawstring pouch with chocolate coins. Read the story with your kids.

I want Ethan to know who Saint Nicholas was; he was a man who loved God and shared the love of God with those around him. After we read a couple of stories about the real Santa Claus, Ethan decided he wanted to be Saint Nicholas too! This is a new tradition I want to start. I found dollar store stockings and had him fill them with oranges and some chocolate gold coins.

Then, Ethan wrote Merry Christmas on the Christmas cards we had made a couple of weeks ago. It was such a challenge for Ethan to sneak quietly to our neighbors' house. He tried really hard. We just left them at the door.

A few days later, when we pulled into our driveway, we could see the stocking that we dropped off earlier in the week was sitting on our porch filled again! Ethan yelled out, "Saint Nicholas was here!"

So, Ethan brought the stocking inside and we got to watch him open it up. It was so awesome to see him so excited about the fruit. There was a card inside the stocking that read, "We didn't miss the moment of you teaching Ethan how to share! You are great parents and wonderful neighbors. God bless you, the Launders Family".

I started to cry when I read the card... I was touched. It means a lot to me to see Ethan learning how to show love to others. Then, for it to come right back around to him in the same week. He really understood what it meant to show God's love and kindness. Then, two hours later, our other neighbor knocked on our door and gave us a gift bag filled with baked goodies! Look! This didn't happen last year. See how showing kindness and love becomes contagious? We aren't going to keep the stocking. We are going to fill it again and give it out this week. It shouldn't just stop at us, right? God's love needs to be shared again and again!

Written by Jen Evans

The Christmas Tree: A Symbol of Christ’s Everlasting Love

2010-12-06T22:27:00.000-08:00

Last holiday season, Josh and I were out shopping and we saw a Christmas tree hanging upside down. We looked at each other with frowns said, "Why do people mess with Christmas trees? Why turn them upside down? It looks so silly!" Since then, however, I've come to find out that the first fir trees people brought into their homes were actually hung upside down from the ceiling beams!

Bringing trees indoors began centuries ago, when many cultures thought fir trees were the symbols of life and good fortune. One such superstitious group were the Vikings of Scandinavia. Throughout their long, cold, depressing winters they marveled at the evergreens and began to believe they were magical. Thinking the trees would give them magical strength to survive the harsh winter as well, they brought them into their homes as a lucky charm (or idol) and hung them upside down from the crossbeams.

Later, as the Vikings were converted to Christianity, the symbolism changed. The evergreens were hung as a representation of Christianity and the Tree of Life. The triangular shape of the tree signified the Holy Trinity and its endurance through the cold months reminded them to have faith during tough times. Eventually the custom swept throughout France and Germany, but it wasn't until the late 1500's that the fir trees were taken down from the ceiling to stand upright on the floor.

"Trees were not yet generally associated with Christmas, however, but were considered throwbacks to pagan rituals. It would take one of history's most famous Christian leaders to change that perception. …Martin Luther was walking home on a dark December evening when he was struck by the beauty of the starlight coming through the branches of the many fir trees in the woods around his home. The German Protestant Reformer was so captivated by the way the filtered light appeared that he felt moved to duplicate this effect on the tree he had placed in his home. He tied a candleholder onto one of the evergreen's branches, put a candle in the wooden holder, and lit it…He liked the effect and attached several more candles in the same way…Luther taught his friends and family that the tree represented the everlasting love of God. He pointed out that the evergreen's color did not fade, just as the Lord's love would not fade, no matter what circumstance or trial. The candlelight represented the hope that Christ brought to the world through his birth & resurrection. Thus, to those who knew Luther, the tree evolved into a symbol not just of Christmas but of Christian faith in general." - Ace Collins

Like so many traditions, Christmas trees have changed a lot over the years. Yet the true significance of Christmas remains the same, even after all these centuries.

One of my favorite holiday customs is my time alone with the tree. One night, when the house is dark and everyone else is in bed, I turn off all the lights except the tree and curl up with a blanket on the couch. In the solitude, I gaze at the colors that dance off the ornaments and marvel at the wonder of the season. I take that time to read and reflect on the Christmas story. Despite the fact that scholars don't really know what month of the year Christ was born, He was born! Jesus brought love and hope to a dark world! Jesus brought love and hope to me! I take that quiet moment to thank Jesus for all He did to save me from my sin, and all that he is doing right now, in and through me. Without Him, I am nothing! But along with Mary I can joyfully declare,

My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His handmaiden... The Mighty One has done great things for me! Holy is His name! Luke 1:46-49

I encourage you to take the time this year to savor the significance of Christmas. Plan a sacred moment to celebrate God’s remarkable Gift to you. And I pray this season brings you and your family together to remember His everlasting love and hope!

by Rebecca Grinder

Ruth: Week Five

2010-11-29T21:29:00.000-08:00

After a week of thanksgiving, we come together again for Connect Groups! Join us in the "Living Room" on Thursday nights at 7 pm as we discuss the book of Ruth. We look forward to seeing you there!

Here is the video for week five!

Ruth: Loss, Love & Legacy Video Week Five from April Dace on Vimeo.

Ruth: Week 4

2010-11-19T14:49:00.000-08:00

We can learn so much from Ruth's journey and how she lay down and waited at the feet of Boaz. "...This evening he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. Wash, put on [perfumed] oil, and wear your [best] clothes. Go down to the threshing floor..." Ruth 3:2a-3b (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Jesus so much wants us to take our own journey to rest and lay at His feet.

Check out what Kelly has to say about this week's lesson in the book of Ruth and hear a bit of her song I Lay Down.

Ruth: Loss, Love & Legacy Week 4 from April Dace on Vimeo.

"One of the most moving bends in Ruth’s story is her journey to the threshing floor. I wanted to capture the vulnerability, the loneliness, the darkness of her walk to meet Boaz. Ruth had done everything God had asked her to do, and yet there came a time for simple surrender – to lay down at the feet of Boaz and wait. This so naturally corresponds with our own surrender to Jesus and so my hope was to capture the heart of this passage in a song we could all identify with." - excerpt from Kelly Minter's website

Ruth: Week 3

2010-11-12T09:47:00.000-08:00

Ruth: Loss, Love & Legacy Week 3 from April Dace on Vimeo.

Ruth: Week 2

2010-11-08T20:43:00.000-08:00

The book of Ruth is a truly unique book of the bible. Women of all ages and stages can relate to this story of great loss and love. As one reads the book of Ruth, the evidence of God’s provision in loss and desperation is everywhere! When Naomi arrives to Bethleham, she cries out in grief and bitterness to God... yet He is already preparing to provide through the harvest. We see God’s hand orchestrating a divine legacy through Naomi and Ruth. His redemption and grace is so prominent, it is overwhelming. Week 2 showed us a “glimmer of hope” (as Kelly Minter puts it) after a long 2 weeks of loss, bitterness, grief, and despair. Women in our church and in our community are going through some tough times. Illness, financial hardships, strife in the home, loved ones unsaved, pain emotionally and physically… yet, there is hope in our Kinsman Redeemer!

"I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,

things too wonderful for me to know." Job 42: 2-3 (NIV)

Ruth: Loss, Love & Legacy Week 2 from April Dace on Vimeo.

Meeting in the Living Room...

2010-11-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

"...I longed to delve into a specific book and let someone else's story lead me - preferably a woman's story if possible, and maybe a woman who knew both single and married life, children and barrenness, loss and fullness - though not to appear picky. I knew of only one place to turn." - Kelly Minter

RUTH

Join us on Thursday evenings in the Living Room for a Connect Group. For the next six weeks, we are gathering together to study the book of Ruth using Ruth: Loss, Love, and Legacy by author and singer/songwriter Kelly Minter. Workbooks can be purchased at the Peoples Church's bookstore or on Thursday nights!

Thursday evenings will be a casual time to come together to discuss what we have learned in our daily study during the previous week. If you are unable to make it every week, come when you can! Read Ruth in your bible and come hang out! This study is for ALL WOMEN in every stage of life! Coffee and dessert will be provided!

You can find the weekly videos posted right here on the blog! Check it out!

Ruth: Loss, Love & Legacy Week I from April Dace on Vimeo.

Find out more about the Women's Connect Groups here!

Fall Bible Studies Starts Next Week!

2010-09-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

Find more details about the studies here!

Tell me a little about yourself...

2010-08-24T16:22:00.000-07:00

What are your hobbies?

Do you like to cook or eat?

Read or tell stories?

Hike, bike, or walk?

Shop til you drop?

Quilt, knit, crochet?

Scrapbook or stamp?

Write poetry or journal?

Take photographs or paint?

Cats, dogs, birds, or fish?

What do you ladies like to do? We want to know more about you all! Share your favorites!

Words To Live By

2010-08-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

We all go through cycles of learning lessons and growing. Yet new seasons in life sometimes bring back old challenges or temptations. I can relate to a song by Barlow Girls, called "On My Own":

“How did I manage to mess up one more time?
This pattern seems to be the story of my life.
Should have learned this lesson by the thousandth time.”

Often, I find myself relearning some of the same old lessons. We are creatures of habit. I don't know about you, but I need reminders in my life to help keep me going in the right direction. A scripture verse or inspirational quote helps keep my focus on Christ.

Day by day, step by step, they become words to live by.

Before I moved, I had quotes posted throughout my house to encourage me to stay on track in my daily life. Quotes from a mentor, a poem, a Scripture verse, a passage from a book… words that inspired me were posted on the mirror in my bathroom, at work, as bookmarks, and even in my wallet. Today, I am challenged to get those quotes back up and in my line of sight. Here is my new addition to the collection:

"…that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,
that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,
that to have nothing is to possess all,
that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,
that to give is to receive,
that the valley is the place of vision.”
- from “The Valley of Vision,” author unknown

Let Psalm 119:33 (Message) be our prayer: “God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course. Give me insight so I can do what you tell me— my whole life one long, obedient response. Guide me down the road of your commandments; I love traveling this freeway! Give me a bent for your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot. Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the pilgrim way. Affirm your promises to me— promises made to all who fear you. Deflect the harsh words of my critics— but what you say is always so good. See how hungry I am for your counsel; preserve my life through your righteous ways!”

written by Rebecca Grinder

Summer Fun With Kids: Gone Fishin'

2010-08-17T07:42:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Die Cut Fish & Sticky Hands
Process: Place fish in the middle of the table or circle. Give your child a sticky hand. Have them use their sticky hand and swing it toward the fish. When it lands have them reel in the fish by pulling the sticky hand back toward them. Have them count how many they caught.

Use a Ziploc to store the sticky hands. Use this idea when reading about the Miracle of the Fishes (John 21:1-14) during Bible Time. It's a great hands-on approach for this story.

written by Jen Evans

Summer Fun With Kids: Flubber Fun

2010-08-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

I love unique sensory experiences! Small hands need to explore and be kept busy. This recipe is not for shaping but for exploratory purposes only. Our local dollar store and Target carry this Flubber pictured below but you can make your own easily at home.

Supplies: 2 cups white glue, 1 1/2 cup warm water, food coloring or non-toxic liquid watercolor; 4 tsp. Borax, and 1 1/3 cups warm water

Process: Mix glue, 1 1/2 c. warm water, and food coloring together. Mix Borax and 1 1/3 c. warm water together. Add Borax mixture to the glue mixture and stir with your hands as quickly as possible to get the borax solution and the glue solution to bind. (Use latex gloves to protect your hands from the liquid watercolor). Mix until all the water has been incorporated into the mixture.

Some things to remember when using Flubber: Flubber does not come out of carpeting if dry. It will stick to clothing and hair, but can be soaked to remove.

Some fun ways kids enjoy playing with Flubber are at a sensory table, with scissors practicing their cutting skills over a tray, with cookie cutters for shaping, with their plastic kitchen toys, and with older children use straws to blow bubbles into the Flubber.

written by Jen Evans

What I Wish I Knew

2010-08-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

For years, writer and comedian Anita Renfroe has been causing laughter in homes across America. In 2008, she was featured once a month on Good Morning America, and her recent concert comedy DVD release, It’s Probably Just My Thyroid, is 78 minutes of pure hilarity. She ends the concert by reading a letter that she wrote to her younger self about all the things she wishes she’d known back then.

“Moisturize your neck for pete’s sake! One day it will occur to you that you could have used a dab more and gone down another seven inches and preserved your ability to wear something other than turtle necks!”
“Stop obsessing about your waistline… unless you’re just looking at it to memorize it… because, it will leave you!”
“Don’t worry about your future husband and children. Turns out, they’re way better than you’re anticipating. It’s the truth!”
“But what I really need to tell you is this, so pay attention! – There are so many great things happening and you’re missing half of them worrying if you are pretty enough, or capable enough, or good enough!”
“Pay attention to the people that God is bringing into your life right now, with so much wisdom and experience, who want to share it with you. Don’t miss that!”
“ ...And by the way, pay extra attention to your Nanaw because this time next year, she won’t be around and you are going to miss her!”

If only we knew then what we know now. Our destinies are never what we expect. More often than not, our lives end up quite different than we dreamed when we were children. Looking back, much of what I thought was important doesn’t even matter today, but the things I took for granted meant more than I knew.
Try writing yourself a letter. What advice would you give yourself? I wrote my very own letter to a younger me:

Rebecca, I know at times you struggle to find your way. You hide the fact that you are lonely. You wonder about your destiny and the purpose God has for you. You ask questions about your future – Will home life ever become peaceful? Will I ever get married? Have a family? Now that I am older, I can see His hand in it all. Remember that God has always and will forever provide for you. "Be strong. Take courage… God is striding ahead of you. He's right there with you. He won't let you down; he won't leave you. Don't be intimidated. Don't worry." Deuteronomy 31:8 (Message)
When it gets tough at home, and you don’t feel loved, know that things will get better because you put your trust in the Lord. “He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:3 (NLT)”. He is the giver of peace. “The Lord gives his people strength. The Lord blesses them with peace. ” Psalm 29:11 (NLT)
I know you feel like time is moving slowly but in just a few years you will meet your husband. He is the man you always dreamed of. Even more than you ever prayed for. He will be your best friend and your days will be filled with laughter. God is still working in him right now, so don’t forget to pray for him...he needs your prayers.
Take a look around! See the friends you have by your side? Don’t take them for granted. They are a diamond in the ruff. They are so rare… roses amidst the world’s thorns. Time brings change, often too quickly. You won’t know how rare they are until you’re no longer by each other’s side.
Be content in all that you have. Enjoy life and learn from the mentors around you. They won’t always be at arms length, so cherish them. Love them. Learn all you can from them. You won’t get that chance until you meet them again in heaven. Make lasting relationships, centered on truth, respect, and compassion. Surround yourself with people who lift you up in encouragement.
Granted, you can’t see the whole picture right now, but be assured that God is moving. Eventually, you will see the puzzle pieces, events of your life, fit together. All has happened for His reasons and although the pieces right now don’t fit, fear not (Romans 8:28)! The whole picture looks more beautiful than you can imagine. Just wait and see (Psalm 27:14)!
Signed by Rebecca Grinder, 2009

Written by Rebecca Grinder

Sister 2 Sister

2010-06-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of the ladies who attended the Sister 2 Sister event. Thank you to all of the people who worked hard to put this event together. A shout out to Debra for keeping us laughing! We all had a great time together chatting and getting to know each other better.

Tell us what you thought of the event! Leave a comment since the Leadership Team would love to hear your feedback!

Advice

2010-05-31T22:29:00.000-07:00

I actually uttered the words “your standards are too high” to my daughter. What? As soon as the words were out of my mouth, I knew that it wasn’t right, that I had made a huge error. My head snapped up and I met my daughters eyes and she raised her eyebrow…I said “What kind of mother says that?” She laughed. I laughed. I seriously think that someone should revoke my mothering license. How many times in the past have I told her to reach for the stars, aim high, expect the absolute best? And then I say…your standards are too high…I am still shaking my head at myself.

Aren’t you thankful that when God speaks to us, His children, that He never makes a mistake? That He always gives us the absolute best advice? That we can always trust His word? I am so very, very thankful for that. I feel blessed to know that my Heavenly Father always speaks truth and life and He always has the very best for me in mind. No mistakes, no faux pas. It’s good to seek advice from other Christians, but even they will fail at times, even as I failed with my daughter. I may not be a perfect mother but I am so glad that I have a perfect Heavenly Father!

Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Proverbs 19:20

Written by Mandy Augsburger

Bad Day

2010-05-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a day when your best foot forward ends up being the foot in your mouth? A couple of weeks ago, a woman walked into the business where I work. She had that harried, slightly distracted look of someone with a long to-do list. She was not a client, but asked me if the owner of the agency was in. He had just left for lunch. Frustrated, the woman unleashed some choice words, threw her hands in the air, and proceeded to rant and rave insults at my boss, whom she had never even met. I was flabbergasted! Before I knew how to respond, she decided to take her business elsewhere and left, still cursing and shaking her head.

We all have bad days. As Christians, we are called to love one another so that the world will know we are Christ’s disciples (John 13:35), yet there are many days I know I’ve responded poorly to a situation. I blush to think of how I have treated people at times. But what do we do after we’ve said something we shouldn’t have? Maybe we lost our temper like this woman. Perhaps we made a snide remark or insensitive comment. Maybe we didn’t SAY anything at all; maybe it was our silence that spoke volumes. In all honesty, isn’t it easier to avoid someone we’ve offended than to make amends?

A few days after her first visit, the same woman returned to our office, and to my utter surprise, this time she was carrying a dozen roses. She handed them to me and offered a most sincere apology. She had let her stressful circumstances get the better of her, but wanted to be sure she “made things right.” It knocked the socks off of everyone in the office! We didn’t even know her name. She certainly didn’t have to come back to face us. Yet she did. What humility! What strength of character!

This woman’s actions made a huge impression on me. She felt the need to apologize for her behavior, and instead of ignoring that inner urge, she swallowed her pride and did it! Too often as believers, we ask God’s forgiveness and think that’s enough. Yet in reality, we are commanded to “make things right.” That means the person we’ve offended deserves a heartfelt apology too. It doesn’t have to include a dozen roses. A small bouquet of genuine humility and sincere regret is really all that’s needed.

Can you think of anyone who is due an apology from you?

Jesus said, “So if you are about to offer your gift to God at the altar and there you remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, go at once and make peace with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift to God.” (Matt. 5:23-4 Good News Translation) God’s Word tells us to, “be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that's your job, to bless. You'll be a blessing and also get a blessing. Whoever wants to embrace life and see the day fill up with good, here’s what you do: Say nothing evil or hurtful; Snub evil and cultivate good; run after peace for all you're worth.” (1 Peter 3:8-12 The Message)

written by Rebecca Grinder and Barbara Grinder

Supporting Her

2010-05-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

"I will seek the lost, bring back the scattered, bind up the broken and strengthen the sick... Eze 34:16a

God loves the lost, so He sends workers out to preach the Gospel in all the world. My husband and I were called to go. We are missionaries in Israel, serving here in the Arab community in East Jerusalem, Israel. I am currently listening to a mosque calling the Muslims to sunset prayer. It is raining, and I am bundled up in a blanket in our empty apartment about to say good-bye to the Middle East. The Muslims in the community we live in are conservative; 90% of the women dress in robes and headscarves, and almost all the men attend Mosque prayers at noon on Fridays. It is a dark place spiritually, where hatred of Jews and Christians is prevalent. About 2% of the Arabs here are Christians. We have made friends here who are tougher and more resilient to life and struggles than I will ever be! Local Christians here are persecuted and belittled for their faith. So, why did I come here if it is so tough? Christ laid down His life for me; the least I could do is lay down mine for Him. Though only some are called to go, everyone can assist them in different ways. Here are a few ways you can bless a missionary woman out in the field.

1. Pray for her. Praying for a missionary you know is the most important thing to do to support her. Yes, I said the most important... not that check every month. God can take money from a fish’s mouth, but God has given us an opportunity to work with Him in praying for the Saints around the world. Paul says in 2 Thessalonians 3:1, “Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as {it did} also with you...”. When you pray, be specific. Pray that she would get up rejoicing in the day that the Lord has made, that she finds joy in her daily chores (like laundry and dishes) and joy in her ministry (whether it is her dream job or not). Life is difficult in another country; the normal day-to-day things are so much harder. Ever squat over a hole in the ground to go to the bathroom? Ever live in a concrete house that is colder in the winter inside than outside? Ever try to discourage a man from marrying a second wife? Start a weekly or monthly prayer group at your church and pray about such things. Email missionaries or call with Skype (a free resource) and ask what they need prayer for.

2. Send a note or email to encourage her. Use scripture, too. That always picks me up! Don’t lecture her about her life, but tell her that you’re praying for her.

3. Send packages to her. Missionaries are ecstatic about receiving them. Just recently, we saw the reactions of four little kids getting a package. They ran around the house screaming because they got a machine to help two of the kids (who are legally blind) to read. The two who are not blind, were just as excited! However, the missionary’s new country may tax her on what you send, so ask before sending anything. Some ideas? Newspapers from the missionary’s hometown, postcards, candy, travel size soaps and lotions. Make sure, though, that she can’t get these items in her new country.

4. Support her when she returns. She will most likely come back to the States either for furlough or permanently. Pray about offering her a room or a car for a month or so to help her get settled. Invite her over for dinner, and ask her detailed questions. Sometimes, people feel that since the missionary has had a difficult time in the field, she won’t want to share her adventures, but most of the time that’s not true. We have been changed from our experiences and want to talk about them. If you feel that you and your missionary don’t have anything in common, that is fine. You both can benefit from hearing about each others’ lives. The missionary also needs to hear what changes God has made in your heart as well. Another blessing could be a gift card. I heard of a missionary that got a $1,000 gift card for a clothing store, so she could get a whole new wardrobe! WOW! What a blessing, but you may only be able to give a $20 gift card. Be creative and she will love it! These things will bless her and you as you share in God’s ultimate plan of salvation throughout the world. We are one Body with one purpose, seeing the lost saved. "Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; For I am God, and there is no other. I have sworn by Myself, The word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness And will not turn back, That to Me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance” Isaiah 45:22-23.

Written by guest author Deborah Pettit
(Rebecca Grinder's sister)

Know My Heart

2010-04-19T22:37:00.000-07:00

"Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!" Psalm 139:23 (ESV)

Ladies Encounter

2010-04-12T12:29:00.000-07:00

Join Women of all ages Tuesday Mornings at 9:00am or Thursday Evenings at 7:00pm. This is more than just a Bible Study, it is an encounter with God. The current study is: Here and Now, Then and There a lecture series on Revelation by Beth Moore.

Here are what ladies said about our last study A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place by Beth Moore.

"I had so many “wow” moments throughout this study. Learning the tabernacle was a copy of one in the heavenlies, the form of the cross wondering through the desert, to the position of angels on the mercy seat and in the tomb. This is a study for everyone, not just women." – Tammy

"I have enjoyed this Bible study. I thought when she was talking about the tabernacle, how spiritually filled with the Holy Spirit she is, she brings a new light to the Holy of Holies. I would like to have had the opportunity to feel and see the Glory of God. I have learned that the more of the series of Bible studies I do, the more fulfilled I am getting with the blessings of God." – Janice

"Great study. This really takes you deeper in understanding how Christ was revealed and how we are invited in to have a deeper relationship with God, through the picture of the tabernacle." – Claudia

"This study so beautifully lays out how the tabernacle of Moses points to our Savior and High Priest Jesus Christ. We are His temple and He tabernacles with us every day. I got such a glorious sense of all Christ did for me." – Linda

"This is my third Beth Moore Bible study and because of the way the world is going, I am looking forward to her “Revelations” Bible study. Beth is dynamic, passionate and teaches the character of God. Some of what she taught touched me deeply and personally." – Regina

"Beth dynamically reveals all the connections of old and new testaments. She shows the full circle of God’s dwelling with man from Eden to the tabernacle through all the temples back to God’s perfect Eden. God is so good to continually reveal Himself to me. He graciously draws me closer to Him."
– Sarah

"I will never be the same after this study. I now have such an insight of God’s desire to dwell among His people. I don’t know how many times I have said, “Where have I been? Why have I never known this!?” Through laughter, prayer and tears I have come to a greater understanding of God’s love and never have I wanted to dwell with my Lord and Savior more! How amazing He is!" – Rebecca

"I was amazed by how orderly our Lord is. Everything draws together to show His purpose and His plan. I was touched that since the very beginning, He has had a plan in motion to draw me to Him. That He desires to dwell with me. Absolutely precious." – Mandy

It isn't too late to start this week! We can't wait to see you there!

Be Still

2010-04-05T12:32:00.000-07:00

I used to love to visit my grandma’s house. She was one of my very favorite people in the world. Her house smelled like wood stove and ginger snaps…sometimes I would come and I would catch her still in bed. I would slip under the covers with her and snuggle up to her back. Every time she would reach around behind her, touch my legs and say “Be still”. It makes me smile to think about it. I miss her.

When I came to Peoples Church 2 ½ years ago, I was grieving the loss of my church family and of my friendships. My family and I had been here for almost a year and my husband and kids were connecting, but I wasn’t. I knew that I was holding back. I wasn’t worshiping like normal, I wasn’t going forward for prayer even when I knew I needed to, I wasn’t getting involved in Bible studies…nothing. No connection. My husband and I came to a worship night and he was playing guitar, so I was sitting alone. As the music began I could feel myself trying to hold back from entering in when all of the sudden I sat down. That was unusual for me. And then, I went totally quiet. I didn’t sing a note, also unusual for me. As I sat there being quiet and being still, I heard a voice say to me “Why are you running after them? I am all you need, run after me.” Instantly I began to weep, not cry, I wept. All of the hurt, all of the loneliness, all the anger and frustration, the pent up emotions were released in a flood. I shook my head that “yes”, I knew that He was right. He is all I need. It was one of those moments that you look back on and cherish for the rest of your life. God spoke a word directly to me at the time of my need, in one of my weakest moments, when I was finally able to be still. I wonder how often I have missed what He was trying to say to me because I simply could never be still long enough to listen to Him.

I’m not sure why grandma wanted me to be still, but it didn’t matter to me, I was with her, I was hearing her breath, touching her hair, smelling her perfume, it was time with just me and her. Sometimes she never spoke a word, it was just a special time in her presence and other times she would whisper special words to me of love and encouragement…Like my time with Jesus….sometimes just precious moments in His presence, taking in His Spirit and other times, listening to His words of love and encouragement for me.

"Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth."

Psalm 46:10

Written by Mandy Augsburger

Weeds

2010-03-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

It was sunny today, spring is arriving, flowers are blooming and weeds are thriving once more in my yard. My husband “gently” suggested that it would be so nice if I would pull some of those to make our yard look a little better. I needed the exercise, so of course I agreed.
About 10 minutes into this job, while the sun was beating down on me, my sweater came off and it became work. Times like this make you ask questions, at least it did me. God, why did you create weeds and especially why are they growing in my yard?

Quietly the thoughts started forming. Weeds come in many varieties, just stop and look around at what you see in your yard.

Okay, I stopped and looked. I walked around taking stock of what I saw in front of me. Some were huge and obvious. Some were flat and lying low just so I would miss them. I noted that some try to fake you out with pretty blossoms, you know like the variety your child firsts picks and brings to you as a cherished gift. Weeds have a way of just taking over and choking out everything else around them. I even had the type that snap and shoot seeds all over if you dare touch them. Then there are those with massive deep roots, and some that have shallow ones. Well it seems my yard had a wonderful variety today for me to consider.

I believe the Holy Spirit began to show me that these weeds I was grumbling about had a very valuable lesson for me if I would just listen. Where did these weeds come from? I know my neighbor’s yard is full of them, but I didn’t ask for them to share with me. How did they get so big, did someone fertilize them? Why do some have such pretty flowers? Why can’t I see those types as easy? How do I get rid of them?

A word was brought to my mind. Sin… can we ask the same questions? Where did that sin come from? Did I allow my neighbor or friend or another type of influence to draw me in? How did I ever let myself get this wrapped up in this and become so huge in my life? Is that one really so bad? How could I have been blind to that in my own life? How do I get rid of them?

I pulled on a big dandelion and the root broke off down in the hard dirt. Can’t I just leave that there? There are so many, what if I just get most of them would that be enough? The answer came back quickly.

You know if you pull a weed and leave the root, it will come back. All you did was to take the visible part away so no one would notice. If you don’t deal with weeds and you let them go to seed, they will spread and take over your yard and maybe your neighbors too. If you want your garden to flourish you will tend it and at the first sign, remove the weed roots and all. It takes diligence on the part of the gardener to stay on top of it and to know how to get rid of each type of weed that finds a place to grow. You have to nurture the good plants to have a beautiful garden. Gardening is a constant job, but there are rewards in doing it well. Are you willing?

So it is with our lives. If we don’t get to the root of the sin and surrender that to our Heavenly Father, sin will grow and take over our lives. Only He can remove the root of the problem. We have to remain diligent when we see temptations and we must not allow them to grow into sin that will damage our souls. We can allow the Master Gardener to clean the rubbish out, and prune away the harmful areas and water and feed us. Only then will we grow into what He wants us to be, someone who produces good fruit that will bless others for God’s Glory.

Thank you Lord for a lesson from a weed.

Written by Claudia Scott

Retreat and Remember

2010-03-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

As a participant in this year’s Women’s Retreat: Measureless Love, I walked away in awe of all that God revealed to me over the short three-day getaway. I am still processing it and trying to wrap my mind around everything He taught me, however, like a blazing neon sign, one message was unmistakable: Remember.

Retreats are often “mountain top experiences” so even before it began I felt a nudging from the Holy Spirit to note carefully what would take place. He was telling me to take this weekend seriously so that I would not forget what He said to me when I went back to my day-to-day life. As my sister-in-law, Sarah, and I drove westward to Cannon Beach on Thursday, we listened to C.S. Lewis’ The Silver Chair on CD. In the second chapter, Aslan, the Great Lion, gave these instructions to Jill:

“…But, first, remember, remember, remember, the Signs. Say them to yourself when you wake in the morning and when you lie down at night, and when you wake in the middle of the night. And whatever strange things may happen to you, let nothing turn your mind from following the Signs. And secondly, I give you a warning. Here on the mountain I have spoken to you clearly: I will not often do so down in Narnia. Here on the mountain, the air is clear and your mind is clear; as you drop down in Narnia, the air will thicken. Take great care that it does not confuse your mind. And the Signs which you have learned here will not look at all as you expect them to look when you meet them there. That is why it is so important to know them by heart and pay no attention to appearances. Remember the Signs and believe the Signs. Nothing else matters…”

Yet even with the Holy Spirit’s preparation, I was still a little surprised to hear Beth Moore bring up a familiar topic: remembering the examples of God’s measureless love in our own life. When she said in her cute Texas drawl, “Do I believe in miracles? I AM ONE!” - my own past flooded back.

In 2005, at twenty-seven, my life was at a crossroads. I had gone through a period of healing and restoration, and was lovingly serving God. This in itself was a miracle. Yet just as I had finally found contentment in being single, He was preparing another miracle for the next chapter in my life. It was during this pivotal time that my mentor gave me my very first Beth Moore book, Believing God. As I read, the book’s theme took me on a heart-transforming adventure:

God is a BIG God.
God is who He says He is. (Ex 3:14)
God can do what He says He can do.
I am who God says I am. (Jer 29:11)
I can do all things through Christ. (Philippians 4:13)
God’s Word is alive and active in me.

Wow! There is power in those words! These truths, found in scripture, left such an impression that I’ve never been the same. And just so I would never forget, God had my husband (yes, husband) design my wedding ring to be a visual reminder. In the center of the ring, the largest stone reminds me that God is a BIG God. He is who He says He is. On either side of the center diamond are smaller heart-shaped diamonds: a reminder that God is the One who brought our hearts together and He can do what He says He can do!

Now on the Oregon Coast in 2010, I was being reminded of those familiar truths. Had I forgotten the measureless power and love of God? No, not completely... yet, in my complacency I had allowed the daily things of this world to cloud my focus. In the words of Aslan, “the air had thickened” and I had not always seen the signs of His measureless love.

Mark Batterson sums this up perfectly in his book, Wild Goose Chase.
“Have you ever noticed how often people in the Old Testament built altars? It seems like they were building them all over the place, all the time. Why? Because we have a natural tendency to remember what we should forget, and forget what we should remember. Altars help us remember what God doesn’t want us to forget. They give us a sacred place to go back to. So why did we stop building altars? I honestly wonder if our lives seem more routine than they really are, simply because we don’t have any altars dotting the landscape. I wonder if many of us feel spiritually lost because we don’t have any milestones that help us find our way back to God. We need altars that renew our faith by reminding us of the faithfulness of God. And every once in a while, we need to go back to those sacred places to repent of our sin, renew our covenant with God, and celebrate what God has done.” – p. 48

Thank God, “We will never wake up on any single day of our lives that Jesus isn’t full of grace and truth!” (Beth Moore) I have no doubt of God’s grace, healing and truth. I have seen it over and over again in my life, and I need to be reminded of that. I need to remember.

“Then Samuel took a stone and set it between Mizpah and Shen, and named it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us.’” I Samuel 7:12

At retreat, I was challenged to build an altar that would stand as a constant reminder to me of His measureless love and faithfulness. This photograph is my “Ebenezer.” I am going to have it framed and place it where I see it daily, to remember all my God has done.

Written by Rebecca Grinder

Breathe

2010-03-13T16:48:00.001-08:00

At the beginning of each new year, rather than create unrealistic resolutions for myself I prefer to chose a word to live by. Then, I post the word, along with quotes and scriptures that relate, in places I will see often. My word for this year is 'breathe'.

I've found that these definitions of the word spoke to me the most:

1. to take air, oxygen, etc., into the lungs and expel it; inhale and exhale; respire. I am always reminding people to, “Take a deep breath… now, don’t forget to exhale!” I need the daily reminder that God is a BIG God! Breathe in and breathe out. God is good; all of the time! Breathe in and breathe out. He is powerful so fear not (Exodus 9:16 & Matt 10:31)! I can trust that He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb 13:8, Psalm 28:7). Breathe in and breathe out. In a world full of turmoil, I can hold onto the hope He brings (Rom 5:1-2)! Sigh, that’s the kind of truth I need to take in, every moment, like the air I breathe!

2. to pause, as for breath; take rest: How about giving me a chance to breathe? I've been reflecting on ways I can pause, as well as balance my time wisely. That being said, I took inventory of my time and I realized some things needed to go. In order to grow and mature, I’ll need to prune (John 15:1-17) to make room to reach out and build relationships. Although, I love those things which have preoccupied my time, I had to ask myself a question: Is my time being spent wisely? Are my talents being used to glorify Him and am I furthering His kingdom (Matt 25:14-20)? Figuratively speaking, what am I doing with the plot of land He has given me? I recently read an article by author Don Miller and the following really hit home:

"A farmer farms a field, and if he misses a week of work, everything falls apart. If the seeds aren’t in the ground when the rain comes, the crops don’t grow. Our faith is not about magic, it’s about partnering with God to see remarkable things happen through faithfulness and consistency over a long-period of time. If we buy into the instant-results mindset of our culture (that is depressed and confused itself) we will become very frustrated with God. God has a system for growing food. If one farmer does no work, but prays and sings to God, and another farmer does work, and does not pray or sing to God, then the farmer who prayed will starve and the farmer who worked will eat, because even though the second farmer didn’t acknowledge God, he understood God’s ways and he adhered to the principles God created. The first farmer was just looking for a magic show."

3. to live; exist: Hardly a man breathes who has not known great sorrow. God gives me life with each breath. I remember when my brother-in-law, Dave, had lung surgery and he described how difficult it was to take in a single breath. It is something we take for granted each day. Our family has been listening to the Focus On The Family’s radio theater production of The Chronicles of Narnia. I’ve been fascinated by the imagery of Aslan breathing life into the beasts in The Magician’s Nephew. Genesis 2:7 says, “The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. (Gen 2:7)” In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Aslan breathes onto the prisoners to release them from the stone statue curse that the White Witch had on them. C.S. Lewis paints beautiful imagery through his words and these stories have given me new insight into how creative and magnificent God is. Yes. He is.

“Who are you?” asked Shasta.

“Myself,” said the Voice, very deep and low so that the earth shook: and again “Myself,” loud and clear and gay: and then the third time “Myself,” whispered so softly you could hardly hear it, and yet it seemed to come from all round you as if the leaves rustled with it.

Shasta was no longer afraid that the Voice belonged to something that would eat him, nor that it was the voice of a ghost. But a new and different sort of trembling came over him. Yet he felt glad too…

But after one glance at the Lion’s face he slipped out of the saddle and fell at its feet. He couldn’t say anything but then he didn’t want to say anything, and he knew he needn’t say anything.

The High King above all kings stooped towards him. Its mane, and some strange and solemn perfume that hung about the mane, was all around him. It touched his forehead with its tongue. He lifted his face and their eyes met. Then instantly the pale brightness of the mist and the fiery brightness of the Lion rolled themselves together into a swirling glory and gathered themselves up and disappeared. He was alone with the horse on a grassy hillside under a blue sky. And there were birds singing.”

- excerpt from The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis

Not only does God give us the air to breathe, he heals and restores. Many times I have rejoiced because He alone gave me grace to survive through trials in life. Breathe in and breathe out. He is there, as close as the air we breathe.

Written by Rebecca Grinder